Meet the Team
Laurie Ann Knapp, Executive Director
“When I tell people where I work, the response is always “How do you do it? You must be an angel.””
'“Yes, we are faced with suffering, illness, and sadness. However, we are also faced with light, with healing and with the chance to make an actual difference in the life of our clients and their families. It is hard to witness grief and loss, but we are grateful to be there when those we care for are scared and in need. I work alongside the best team and the most dedicated volunteers, “they are the angels.””
In Laurie’s spare time, she enjoys taking her dogs for a walk, or for a hike up at her second home near Bancroft. As an administrator she spends most of her days in front of a computer. That’s why she tries to minimize the screen time when outside of work, to give her eyes and back the rest that they deserve. She really enjoys being outside and moving when not working.
Contact:
905-722-9333 (ext. 5503)
Debbie Waterman, administrative assistant/receptionist
Debbie is our administrative assistant/receptionist, she will likely be the person who greets you when visiting our office. She believes we all need a little help at times and Hospice Georgina is here to do exactly that, help you when you need it the most.
Debbie enjoys crafting, especially doing macrame projects. She loves animals, big or small she loves them all. Spending her down time with family and friends over a nice meal and good conversation is one of her favourite things to do.
Always remember, it doesn't cost you a thing to be kind!
Contact:
905-722-9333 (ext. 5502)
Cassandra Sinopoli, Client Care Coordinator
Cassandra is Hospice Georgina's Client Care Coordinator and grief support worker. She graduated from York University with a bachelor of honors in Interdisciplinary Social Science, and is currently working toward completing a Masters of Counselling Psychology with Yorkville University.
Cassandra has experience with facilitating mental wellness and social programs, as well as providing support to people with developmental, physical, and psychiatric disabilities. Her passions include everything mental health, and working to develop a more compassionate and empathetic community.
Between working and studying, Cassandra enjoys spending time at home with her family and friends, spoiling her dogs, cooking, art, walking through nature, and lounging in her backyard. “Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.” - Lisa Olivera
Contact:
905-722-9333 (ext. 5504)
Victoria Vass, Programs & Community OUTREACH coordinator
Victoria runs the Programs & Community Outreach at Hospice Georgina. With a background in program coordination, not-for-profit work, and community services, she brings experience and dedication to her role, ensuring that individuals facing life-limiting illnesses receive holistic support.
Outside of her role at Hospice Georgina, Victoria is the founder of Life After Burns, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to aiding burn survivors in their recovery journey.
In her leisure time, Victoria enjoys playing games, being with loved ones, and spending time outside.
Contact:
905-722-9333 (ext. 5505)
Katelyn meyer, Intake & Volunteer Coordinator
Katelyn is a recent graduate from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science. She has experience working with individuals with a dementia diagnosis and with individuals who have intellectual disabilities.
At Hospice Georgina, Katelyn coordinates the Visiting Volunteer program and oversees the onboarding of new volunteers. She also facilitates the Georgina Parkinson’s Support Group in affiliation with Parkinson Canada.
Her passions include volunteering and promoting kindness and empathy. In her spare time, Katelyn enjoys being outdoors, baking, playing guitar, and being active.
Contact:
905-722-9333 (ext. 5506)
Macy Taylor, Placement Student
Macy is a placement student from Lakehead University Orillia, and is currently in her fourth year of study for a Bachelors of Social Work. Macy's passion for helping and desire to learn has led her to complete her placement at Hospice Georgina.
Macy has experience in facilitating recreational activities with adults and assisting in case management for caregivers of children with developmental disabilities. At Hospice Georgina, Macy will be assisting staff in running programs and groups.
Macy's interests include all things arts and crafts, spending time with friends and family, camping, and reading!
Contact:
summerstudent@hospicegeorgina.com
905-722-9333